When Should You Start Shopping for Your Wedding Dress?

An honest timeline for wedding dress shopping...

One of the most common questions our brides ask is: When should I start shopping for my wedding dress?

The short (and maybe surprising) answer: about 9–12 months before your wedding date.

You may still be getting used to saying "fiancée" but starting early ensures you have time for ordering, shipping, fittings and alterations without feeling rushed.

Your wedding gown sets the tone for the wedding and is deeply personal - give yourself time to enjoy this exciting part of wedding planning!

Why Wedding Dresses Take Time

Most bridal gowns are made-to-order, meaning your dress is ordered from the designer after you choose it. Most designers won't even cut the fabric until the order is placed. Production alone can take several months to get all the special details right.

Once the gown arrives, brides typically need 2–3 alteration appointments to achieve the perfect fit or to customize their vision with a seamstress.

Ideal Bridal Shopping Timeline

Here is a typical wedding dress timeline:

12 months before the wedding
Start researching bridal silhouettes, designers and price points.

9–10 months before the wedding

 Schedule your bridal appointment. You can book with us online (link below) or by calling 207-772-5313
https://www.andreasbridalmaine.com/appointment

6–8 months before the wedding
Your dress is ordered and production begins. Use this time to finalize other details of your bridal party now that you have your dress!

2–3 months before the wedding
Andrea's Bridal offers a "Try On" appointment so you can try YOUR gown on, shop for accessories or veils and show friends/family that may not have been at the first appointment. This is often where you fall in love with your wedding dress again! Alterations and final fittings begin with your seamstress shortly after.

What If Your Wedding Is Sooner?

Don’t panic. We offer a large selection of in house "off the rack" and "sample sale" gowns - often at a discount from retail pricing. You are able to take that dress home that day!

We also work closely with designers to find "in stock" options that can be shipped within weeks, not months.

A bridal stylist can help you explore options that fit your timeline and we love a challenge! When making your appointment, let your consultant know your wedding date and any other time concerns - we are happy to help!

Ready to Start Wedding Dress Shopping?

Find us in downtown Portland, Maine & schedule a personalized styling appointment at Andrea's Bridal.

✨ Schedule your bridal appointment here:
https://www.andreasbridalmaine.com/appointment